What are the different types of kitchen layouts?

If you are considering a kitchen redesign, you have likely come across the names of different kitchen layouts. U-shaped, L-shaped, island, galley... it can get a little overwhelming and quite confusing.

To make the process a little easier to manage though, we have set out the different types of kitchens all in one place. If you would like some further assistance, give Haddon Kitchens a call on 07 3204 0399 and we can discuss all your kitchen needs.

What are the different types of kitchens?

There are 5 common types of kitchen layouts:

• Galley Kitchens
• Single Line Kitchens
• U-shaped Kitchens
• L-shaped Kitchens
• Island Kitchens

Galley Kitchens

A Galley kitchen is a long, narrow kitchen that has cabinets and counters on one or both sides of a central walkway.

Single Line Kitchens

Single-line kitchens are exactly as their name suggests - the layout places all appliances and work areas in one straight line.

U-shaped Kitchens

A U-shaped kitchen is made up of cabinets on three adjoining walls, two parallel walls perpendicular to a third. It is also sometimes referred to as a C shape or J shape kitchen.

L-shaped Kitchens

An L-shaped kitchen utilises two bordering walls, spreading out the work centres; typically, the refrigerator is at one end and the oven is at the other end, and the sink is in the centre.

Island Kitchens

An island kitchen is a kitchen that has freestanding cabinetry, or an 'island' in the space as supplementary counter-top space.

What aspects should you consider when looking at kitchen types?

There are a few points you should always consider when looking at kitchen types for your home:

• What is your budget?
• How big is the space in which you want to put your kitchen?
• Is there a particular style of kitchen that you prefer? (e.g. French Provincial) Is there a type of kitchen that suits that style best?
• What do you want to be included in your kitchen?
• What do you need to be included in your kitchen?
• How much storage space do you need?
• What appliances and fixtures are you wanting to include in your kitchen?
• Where is the current plumbing located?
• Where are the current electric points located?
• Are you wanting to relocate plumbing and electrical points? Or use what is already available.

Why choose each design

Why choose a galley kitchen design

• This style of kitchen is preferred by most professional chefs.
• The open ends of this kitchen provide a great flow to the space and allow for easy entry and exit.
• Lots of workspace and cabinets on either side

Why choose a single-line kitchen design

• Commonly used in small space situations such as apartments or units.
• Everything is only a step away
• Can be extended or compacted to fit almost any area

Why choose a U-shaped kitchen design

• Functions really well with the kitchen work triangle, ensuring only a small distance between each work zone.
• Maximises the use of all available space for storage and bench-tops.
• Efficient for a small to medium kitchen space.

Why choose an L-shaped kitchen

• Flexible in a variety of arrangements.
• Provides ample amount of bench space.
• Works really well with open plan living areas in small to medium spaces.

Why choose an island kitchen layout

• One of the most versatile kitchen designs.
• Allows for multiple workstations and is great for entertaining.
• Loads of bench space.

If you would like some further help with choosing a kitchen design to suit your needs, give Haddon Kitchens a call on 07 3204 0399 and we can help. Alternatively, check out our Kitchen Designs section to see all the kitchen types in action or the following information pages:

• Why choose an island kitchen for your home?
• Why choose an L-shaped kitchen for your home?
• Why choose a U-shaped kitchen for your home?